Geisinger Facilities Remain Open Due to Strike Geisinger facilities in Luzerne County remain open as SEIU nurses begin 5-day strike Registered nurses affiliated with Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Healthcare Pennsylvania started a 5-day strike at 7 a.m. Monday at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Geisinger South Wilkes-Barre and Geisinger Healthplex CenterPoint after several weeks of negotiations between SEIU and Geisinger failed to produce a mutually agreeable labor contract. Despite any labor actions, those facilities remain open and staffed with experienced, licensed registered nurses. “We have activated a contingency plan that includes bringing in additional staff on a temporary basis so these critical health care resources in Luzerne County can operate business as usual to continue delivering high-quality care to everyone in need during the strike,” said Renee Blakiewicz, R.N., vice president and chief nursing officer for Geisinger’s northeast region. “In addition to nurses, other members of the clinical team, including physicians and advanced practice providers, will care for our patients as they always have. We are fully committed to ensuring continuity of care for our community during the strike.” Geisinger does not expect to postpone any procedures or elective surgeries during the strike. Geisinger values the compassionate work registered nurses do every day for the community and respects the rights of the SEIU-affiliated nurses to collectively bargain. “We have been negotiating in good faith, and a strike is the last thing we wanted to see happen,” said Brion Lieberman, chief human resources officer for Geisinger. “We want to compensate our nurses for their great work, while maintaining the ability to add clinical staff, improve our facilities and grow the services we offer this community. We have offered a starting salary of more than $85,000 per year for fulltime staff with yearly increases and comprehensive health benefits. We hope SEIU will return to the bargaining table so we can reach a mutually agreeable contract.”
Geisinger Hires Hernando Ruiz-Jimenez, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer Hernando Ruiz-Jimenez is Geisinger’s new chief marketing and communications officer, a role in which he oversees brand and digital marketing, corporate communications, content creation and service line marketing for the entire system. Ruiz-Jimenez brings more than two decades of marketing leadership experience to Geisinger, including four years as chief marketing officer at NewYork-Presbyterian and three years as chief marketing and communications officer for Triple-S Insurance, a licensee of BlueCross BlueShield. “Hernando’s experience, knowledge, and leadership — from health systems to health insurance and numerous other industries — will be a great asset to the organization and the marketing and communications team,” said Amy Brayford, Geisinger’s executive vice president and chief of staff. While at NewYork-Presbyterian, Ruiz-Jimenez oversaw the transformation of the organization’s marketing department and guided it through the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in one of the hardest-hit areas of the country. “As someone with a passion for healthcare marketing, the appeal of being able to tell the Geisinger story and promote this well-known, respected brand was obvious,” said Ruiz-Jimenez. “Geisinger is a leader in the value-based care model that is so critical to improving healthcare in the U.S. It also is a unique system, offering the kinds of facilities and level of care in both rural areas and smaller cities that put it on par with the large academic medical centers people would otherwise have to travel to in Philadelphia, New York or other major metropolitan areas.” In addition to his healthcare experience, Ruiz-Jimenez has held marketing leadership roles for iconic consumer brands including Pepsi and Captain Morgan. He most recently served as general manager and chief marketing officer of Un(Think) Foods, a successful agricultural start-up. Ruiz-Jimenez received an M.B.A. from Stanford University and a B.S. in Business Administration from Villanova University. He is a professor at CCNY’s Branding + Integrated Communications (BIC) Master’s Program, a Member and Governance Fellow of the National Association of Corporate Directors and the Latino Corporate Directors Association.
Geisinger Publishes Series for Heart Month—Signs of Heart Disease You Shouldn’t Ignore Signs of heart disease may show up unexpectedly. But these clues should lead you to your doctor’s office. By: Gregory Yost, D.O., interventional cardiology, Geisinger Bleeding gums may not seem like a serious issue. But if it becomes chronic, you might be surprised to hear that it can be a clear warning your heart isn’t working as it should. While pressure or tightness in the chest and a rapid, irregular heartbeat are primary signs of heart disease, there are other symptoms that can be less obvious — yet just as dangerous. And ignoring these subtle signs of heart disease can lead to serious heart trouble, like a heart attack or stroke. Identifying all signs of heart trouble and then responding to them is key to help prevent heart disease, which is the leading cause of death for both men and women. Even if you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to get a symptom checked out — especially if you have risk factors for heart disease. Preventing heart disease is an important step in living a long, healthy life. 6 subtle signs of heart disease Chest pain that may radiate to the neck, jar or arms, shortness of breath, heart palpitations and numbness set off alarm bells that will send most of us straight to the doctor’s office. But not all heart problems come with clear warning signs. If you have some of these lesser-known signs of heart disease, don’t wait to contact your provider. Waiting puts you at higher risk for a serious heart event to occur. Exhaustion and weakness While exhaustion alone isn’t a sign of heart disease, chronic exhaustion and weakness can be, especially if you’re getting sufficient rest. Your energy levels are directly related to blood flow and oxygen levels. A healthy heart constantly pumps oxygen-carrying blood through your body. But if there are underlying problems with your heart, it might not work as efficiently. As a result, you may begin to feel tired after routine activities — or even confused. Because oxygen isn’t reaching your muscles and brain as it normally does, weakness and fatigue become obvious. If you’re often feeling exhausted and weak, even with sufficient rest, consult with your healthcare provider to find a cause. Swollen feet Swollen feet are a more subtle sign of potential heart concerns. In fact, your socks and shoes can make it difficult to notice your feet are swollen in the first place. But why would your feet swell if you have heart problems? Because your heart regulates blood flow, and slow blood flow can cause pressure to build up in your legs, leading to edema. Edema is the buildup of fluid in the body’s tissues. Typically, edema related to heart problems can be seen in the legs and feet. Any sign of heart failure or reduced function is serious, so talk to your doctor if you notice swelling in your feet. Dizziness, light-headedness, and shortness of breath Slow blood flow and low oxygen levels in the brain and lungs can lead to feeling dizzy, light-headed and short of breath. And it’s especially important to notice if you have these symptoms without rigorous activity. If activities, like going up the stairs or going about your daily life, consistently make you dizzy or out of breath, don’t ignore them. Dizziness and being out of breath are both examples of your body telling you that you need more oxygen. Migraines Migraines are intense headaches that are bad enough on their own. Some research suggests migraines with auras may be linked to heart problems, but more studies are needed on the connection between these health issues. If you have migraines with auras, take note of any new changes in symptoms of your headache. Newly developed weakness in your arms during a migraine could be a sign of heart disease. Swollen and bleeding gums Swollen or bleeding gums may not be the biggest indicator of heart health, but studies show a possible correlation. Recent research has revealed that your mouth can show your heart health. In fact, some of the same bacteria found in your mouth can be found in your heart. So, if you have high levels of bacteria and swelling in your mouth, it’s wise to get your heart checked, too. While the relationship between heart health and oral health isn’t clearly understood, consistent swollen and bleeding gums could be a sign of heart issues. Sweating Sweating while exercising is normal. Breaking out in a sweat while watching TV is not. We sweat to keep our body temperature at a regular level. So, why would you sweat when you aren’t active or it’s not hot outside? Heart failure makes pumping blood more difficult, so your heart must work harder. When your heart struggles to pump blood consistently, it generates heat. To compensate, your body starts sweating to keep your body temperature normal. If you’re having serious episodes of sweating when you shouldn’t be, talk to your doctor. Many of these symptoms alone aren’t signs of heart disease, but chronic issues can be or at least a sign of an underlying condition. It’s a good idea to get regular checkups — and live a heart-healthy lifestyle — to take the pressure off. Heart disease risk factors All these subtle signs are even more important to report if they’re combined with other heart disease risk factors, such as if you: Are overweight or obese Smoke, use drugs and alcohol Have a high level of stress Eat a diet high in sodium and saturated fat Don’t exercise regularly Have a family history of heart disease Have high blood pressure or high cholesterol Have diabetes If any of these heart disease risk factors apply to you, talk to your doctor to create a heart health plan. Awareness is the first step in managing your heart health. While genetics do play a role in heart disease, there are risk factors that can be reversed by taking the proper steps and precautions. Left untreated, heart disease can cause a heart attack — when blood flow is severely reduced to the heart. Watch for the subtler symptoms that can indicate a possible heart condition. If you have them, be sure to tell your healthcare provider. When you bring these issues to their attention earlier, they can screen you for heart disease — and plan to keep your ticker going strong for the long haul. For the latest health and wellness tips and advice, visit geisinger.org/balance.
Geisinger Wyoming Associate Chief Medical Officer Selected for Carol Emmott Fellowship Alison Brodginski, D.O., associate chief medical officer and associate chief quality officer of Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, is among 24 women health leaders chosen by the Carol Emmott Foundation for its Fellowship Class of 2025. The flagship program of the Carol Emmott Foundation, the Carol Emmott Fellowship works to accelerate gender and racial equity in health care leadership by providing women leaders a platform for national visibility and a continuously growing network of peers, mentors and sponsors in the industry. “I am privileged to be part of this program, joining an inspiring cohort of talented and dedicated health care professionals,” said Dr. Brodginski. “The fellowship offers an incredible opportunity to collaborate and grow with exceptional leaders dedicated to advancing equity and innovation in health care.” The program equips participants with the necessary resources and connections to lead innovation and create equitable health care systems and governance. The Fellowship Class of 2025 comprises a remarkable group of health care leaders who have demonstrated their commitment to driving change within the industry and beyond. During the 14-month program, fellowship recipients are paired with hand-selected mentors who are nationally recognized senior executive leaders. Each fellow pursues an impact project, which they plan in coordination with their health organization, that promotes sponsorship opportunities and visibility within the organization. Fellows are also afforded opportunities to publish and present their work to the extensive foundation community. Fellows were nominated by senior executive leadership at their institutions and carefully selected through a competitive process focused on the inclusion of professionals with diverse backgrounds, expertise and experiences. The Class of 2025 represents a range of disciplines within health care, from clinical care to financial analysis, education, operations and strategy, bringing a comprehensive perspective to the cohort. Among Geisinger leaders who have participated in past Carol Emmott Fellowship Classes are: Cindy Sheridan, J.D., Geisinger’s associate chief legal officer of litigation services Karlyn Paglia, M.D., chief medical officer of Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center Andrea Wary, R.N., B.S.N., vice president of Geisinger’s Women and Children’s and Cancer institutes Sandra Culbertson, M.D., chair of Geisinger’s Women and Children’s Institute Christa Lese Martin, Ph.D., Geisinger’s chief scientific officer Rachel Manotti, M.H.A., Geisinger’s associate chief strategy officer Denise Torres, M.D., chair of Geisinger’s Surgery Institute
Geisinger Chair of Pediatrics: Rising Theat of Marijuana Edibles Between legalization in many surrounding states and the increased amount of people with medical use cards, the use of tetrahyocannabinol or THC, has increased dramatically in the past decade. The surge in popularity of edible cannabis products has allowed users to be discreet, while eliminating odor and potential harm to the lungs. However, the packaging of these products is appealing to children. Most people don’t know, that THC, the principal psychoactive compound found in cannabis, can be extremely toxic to children. In our communities and at our children’s hospital, there has been an alarming rise of accidental poisonings of children due to synthetic marijuana. It is a growing threat that demands our attention and immediate action. In 2024, we had more than a dozen children brought to our hospital for THC poisoning. We recently admitted two young children to our pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) on the same day with life threatening consequences from cannabis exposure. Young children who unknowingly ingest THC-laced products often present with significant medical emergencies, including profound lethargy, respiratory depression, seizures, and, in severe cases, coma or even near-cardiac arrest. Nearly 10 percent of children suffering from these ingestions require support in a PICU. Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals a dramatic increase in the rate of overdoses. In 2017, there were 207 reported cases of accidental edible cannabis exposure for kids under the age of 6. By 2021, the number skyrocketed to 3,054, and these numbers continue to increase. Toddlers are disproportionately affected due to their small size and developing metabolism, making even small quantities extremely toxic. In June 2022, the Food and Drug Administration released a consumer alert warning that THC-containing edibles are easily mistaken for products that might appeal to children. By Frank Maffei, Geisinger chair of pediatrics
Geisinger Obsertrician Speaks on HPV Vaccine: GetYour Questions Answered HPV vaccine: Get your questions answered By Benjamin Matthews, MD, Geisinger obstetrician and gynecologist The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection, and most people will have exposure at some time in their lives. HPV is the virus that causes genital warts, but some strains can lead to various types of cancer later in life, including cervical, vaginal, vulvar, penile, anal, mouth, and throat cancers. The HPV vaccine is the safest and most effective way to protect against HPV infections — and their potential negative effects — and stop the spread. A misperception is that HPV only causes problems in females. In reality, both women and men can develop genital warts and HPV-related cancers. The vaccine helps the body develop immunity to the virus and prevents spread among people. Immunity is more likely before exposure to HPV, so vaccination in early adolescence is so important to keep preventable cancers from happening. How is HPV spread? HPV is spread through skin-to-skin contact. The strains of HPV that cause cancers in the cervix, penis, throat and anus are usually spread by sexual contact. The problem is, most people infected with HPV will not have symptoms. Even so, the virus is still in their system and could be causing damage. Not to mention, people with HPV can pass the infection to others without knowing it. No treatment for HPV is available. Fortunately, a healthy immune system can detect and suppress HPV in most cases. However, when it doesn’t and the virus remains in the body for long periods, the infected cells can progress into pre-cancer and then cancer. What is the HPV vaccine? Gardasil 9, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2014, is the most often recommended HPV vaccine. This HPV vaccine helps protect against 9 of the highest-risk HPV strains that cause genital warts and cancers. The vaccine works by stimulating the body’s immune system to produce antibodies that can fight off the HPV virus. This response helps the body recognize and destroy the virus if encountered in the future. It’s not a live vaccine. If you’ve already been exposed to a particular strain of HPV, the vaccine doesn’t treat the infection. The vaccine is meant to protect against a new HPV infection, so the vaccine may not be as effective once a person has HPV. Who should get the HPV vaccine series? The CDC recommends the HPV vaccine series for males and females starting at the age of 11 or 12, but it can be safely administered as early as age 9. At this young age, a child’s immune system is especially strong and provides the greatest immune response — and the best protection against HPV infection. Plus, the HPV vaccine series is most effective when given before a child is sexually active and potentially exposed to the virus. Many parents have concerns that giving their child the HPV vaccine might encourage sexual activity at a younger age. But as a provider caring for women with potentially deadly cervical and vulvar cancers, I encourage parents to focus on the opportunity to prevent their child from developing an avoidable cancer. Also, research shows that receiving the vaccine at a young age isn’t linked to an earlier start of sexual activity. The CDC also recommends the HPV vaccine series for older adolescents who aren’t yet vaccinated. Is there anyone who shouldn’t get the HPV vaccine? A person shouldn’t receive the HPV vaccine: If they’re pregnant If they had an allergic reaction after the first HPV shot or have severe, life-threatening allergies If they’re sick with a mild illness at the time When can you get the HPV vaccine? The HPV vaccine is a series of shots, with the number depending on the age at the first dose, and can be safely given at the same time as other vaccines. The CDC recommends the following HPV vaccine schedule: Kids ages 9 to 14 should receive 2 doses of the vaccine, with the second dose administered 6 to 12 months after the first. Teens and young adults ages 15 to 26 should receive 3 doses, with the second dose given about 2 months after the first and the third dose given 6 months after the initial one. Kids who didn’t start or complete the HPV vaccine series during the recommended age can still catch up on their vaccination up to age 45. However, the HPV vaccine after age 26 should be individualized, as the vaccination provides less benefit because more people in this age group have already been exposed to HPV. But everyone’s situation is different, so talk to your primary care provider or OB-GYN about whether the HPV vaccine is right for you. You might still benefit from the vaccine by protecting you against HPV strains you don’t already have. Is the HPV vaccine effective? Earlier forms of the HPV vaccine were only made available less than 20 years ago, but the impact of vaccination is already clear. A recent study in the Journal of the American Medical Association showed that cervical cancer deaths among young women dropped by more than half in the last decade. Gardasil 9 has been extensively studied and is close to 100 percent effective at preventing precancerous lesions and genital warts that are caused by the strains included in the vaccine for people who are vaccinated before onset of sexual activity. It’s proven to offer long-lasting protection and doesn’t require a booster shot after the initial series. However, the HPV vaccine doesn’t protect against all strains of HPV. So, it’s still important to practice safe sex and get regular screenings for cervical cancer starting at age 21. What are the HPV vaccine side effects and risks? Like any vaccine, the HPV vaccine may have side effects and potential risks, but these are generally mild and temporary. Most people don’t have any trouble with the HPV vaccine. HPV vaccine side effects can include: Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site Fever Dizziness or fainting (remain seated for 15 minutes after the shot to lower the risk) Headache Fatigue Nausea Muscle or joint pain These symptoms usually resolve within a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, if necessary. In rare cases, more serious side effects like an allergic reaction can occur. If you or your child have difficulty breathing, hives or swelling of the face, lips or tongue, seek medical attention immediately. The benefits of the HPV vaccine far outweigh its risks. It’s a proactive step in protecting your family’s health. By getting your kids vaccinated, you can reduce their risk of developing potentially life-threatening conditions as an adult. For more health and wellness topics, visit Geisinger.org/balance.
Geisinger Wyoming Valley delivers 2,000th baby of the year The labor and delivery department at Geisinger Wyoming Valley delivered its 2,000th baby of the year early Sunday morning, Dec. 22. The milestone is the first time a Geisinger hospital labor and delivery unit has delivered more than 2,000 babies in a year. Anna Gitanga, 37, of Corona, N.Y., gave birth to a 7-pound, 13.3-ounce girl, Daniela, at 1:59 a.m. Gitanga was visiting family for the Christmas holiday when she went into labor and was brought Geisinger for the delivery. This was Gitanga’s fourth baby — and the second born at Geisinger during a family visit. The child’s father, Magesa Mwita, planned to pick up mother and baby from the hospital on Monday, Dec. 23. “I am so happy with everything,” Gitanga said. “Everyone here is so kind and caring.” The team had anticipated reaching this milestone for several months and assembled a gift basket for the family, according to Melissa Williams, Geisinger Wyoming Valley nursing operations manager. “We updated the delivery totals daily once we hit 1,900, eagerly awaiting 2,000,” Williams said. “While the unit was very busy, this created excitement to see which nurse and doctor would have the milestone delivery. The team now hopes to end 2024 with 2,024 deliveries.”
Geisinger Cancer Institute Attains National Reaccreditation Geisinger Cancer Institute has received reaccreditation under the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer (CoC) Accreditation Program at Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton. The ACS CoC is a consortium of professional organizations dedicated to improving survival and quality of life for patients with cancer by setting and raising standards. “As the population in the northeast continues to age, with that comes the need for high-quality cancer care close to home,” said Erin Miller, D.O., a Geisinger general surgeon and ACS CoC committee chair. “Our recognition by the ACS CoC signifies that we meet the rigorous standards required to deliver exceptional care to our patients and validates our efforts while enabling us to further elevate the standards of cancer care in our region.” CoC accreditation is granted to institutions committed to providing high-quality cancer care by demonstrating compliance with the CoC standards. Each program must undergo a rigorous evaluation and review of its performance and compliance with the CoC standards. To maintain accreditation, cancer programs must undergo a site visit every three years. The CoC accreditation standards supply the structure for providing all patients with a full range of diagnostic, treatment and supportive services either on site or by referral, including community-based resources. As a CoC-accredited institution, Geisinger also becomes an ACS Surgical Quality Partner, which means it is dedicated to consistently improving procedures and approaches, while maintaining a critical eye on process at every step. “ACS Quality programs are grounded in more than a century of experience and participation is an important measure of a hospital’s surgical quality. As an ACS Surgical Quality Partner, Geisinger has shown a commitment to providing the best possible patient care, evaluating that care in a rigorous fashion and dedicating themselves to continuous self-improvement,” said Patricia L. Turner, M.D., executive director and chief executive officer of ACS.
Geisinger Expands Community Medicine in Lackawanna County Geisinger is adding to its community medicine offerings for patients and members in Lackawanna County. Geisinger Montage, located at 5 Lakeview Commons in Moosic, will provide primary care, ConvenientCare walk-in services, lab, and diagnostic imaging in one newly renovated facility. The primary care clinic and diagnostic services are scheduled to welcome their first patients Monday, Dec. 16, with ConvenientCare slated to open in the first quarter of 2025. Geisinger will hold an open house from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12, when members of the community and local media are welcome to tour. Geisinger Montage features 28 primary care exam rooms and six ConvenientCare exam rooms in a 25,000-square-foot space that also serves as a training center for nurses and emergency medical services personnel in Geisinger’s northeast region. “As programs mature, Geisinger Montage will be staffed by eight primary care physicians and four advanced practitioners, making primary care more available to our patients in northeastern Pennsylvania,” said Roger Scott, D.O., internal medicine specialist and director of community medicine in Geisinger’s northeast region. Four more advanced practitioners will staff the ConvenientCare clinic when it opens. Joining Dr. Scott, who is moving his practice to Geisinger Montage, for opening day will be internal medicine specialist Joseph Leo, D.O.; family medicine specialist Saima Mukta, D.O.; internal medicine specialist Michael Jalowiec, D.O., who is a new addition to the Geisinger team; certified physician assistants Thomas Nawrocki and Ripal Patel, and certified registered nurse practitioner Kelly Haikes.
